FC Lyn goalkeeper Tyrel Lacey continues with optimism down his road to recovery and return to the Norwegian 1. Division.

The Oklahoma native started this journey in October of 2009 after tearing the meniscus in his right knee during practice.

As a late singnee with the then-Eliteserien team, Lacey made a mere five appearances before his season came to an abrupt end two games prior to the season closer.

The offseason landed Lacey in his home state recovering from surgery at the Eastern Oklahoma Orthopedic Center. Simultaneously, Lyn found themselves relegated to the 1. Division following a last place finish in 2009.

Nonetheless Lacey eagerly anticipated his expected return for the season opener on April 5th versus Bodo/Glimt. Two and a half weeks later he remains positive despite not playing since the 1-4 loss.

"After testing the knee out [versus Bodo], my team of doctors and I have decided that it is best to focus on getting the knee back to 100%," Lacey recently told YA.

"It [my knee] has been about 75% since my return, so we are hoping to expedite the process and keep me out of most practices for a few weeks to focus a bit more on strengthening in the gym," he explained.

There is no doubt the now sixth month recovery process has both Lacey and Lyn itching for his return. After three weeks of play, the team sits 14th in the 1. Division rankings without a win.

While both parties hope Lacey's reinstatement to his starting position between the pipes comes sooner rather than later, The former University of Tulsa product recognizes the importance of his current role as sideline supporter.

"I am excited for my guys this weekend and believe in them to the fullest!" he concluded. "I'll just have to fight with them from off the field for a few weeks."

Lyn will stay at home in Oslo this Sunday when they play host to an eighth ranked Fredrikstad FK.